Probiotic Supplement Cuts Respiratory Infections in Formula Fed Infants

Adding a probiotic supplement to formula milk reduced rates of respiratory infections in infants who were not breastfed, New Scientist reported. Formula-fed babies are generally more prone to infections. The new supplement helped protect these infants by strengthening their immune systems. [1]

The probiotic supplement contained both sugars found in breast milk and the specific bacteria needed to ferment them, according to New Scientist. This combination produced fatty molecules that appeared to reinforce the immune systems of the infants. As a result, the babies were better able to eliminate viruses that cause symptoms such as sneezing. [1]

Probiotics, meaning for life, are substances or microorganisms that stimulate beneficial microbial growth. The concept traces back to Russian Nobel laureate Elie Metchnikoff in the early 20th century, who suggested that consuming fermented milk containing Lactobacillus could promote longevity by altering gut bacteria. Microbiologists Vernon Lilly and Rosalie Stillwell later coined the term in 1965. [3]

The finding is significant because standard treatments like antibiotics are only active against bacteria and are not effective against viruses, according to medical background details. While the probiotic supplement successfully slashed the risk of respiratory viruses, further research is still needed to fully evaluate the benefits for formula-fed babies, New Scientist reported. [1][2]